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Disclaimer: I don't own The Mortal Instruments
Chapter 16
Confessions
"Good job, I'm proud of you." Izzy murmured into Alec's chest, hugging him tightly as Simon watched on awkwardly. "Even if your shirt is drenched of sweet and you smell gross. What does Magnus even see in you?"
"Thanks Iz," Alec replied sarcastically as he ran his hand through her hair erratically, causing Izzy to yelp and smack his hand away from her face.
"Don't mess my hair up!" She ordered, releasing Alec and swaggering to Simon's side in her tall heels. She nudged Simon with her arm and grinned up at him. "We need to head off, I'm hungry. This girl needs food."
"I think you mean hangry," Simon joked, receiving blank looks from the Lightwood siblings. "Hangry? You know, angry and hungry? Hangry."
"Okay," Alec gave Izzy a pointed look as she subtly shook her head, forcing a smile onto her face. "Why is he here?"
"Let's go," Izzy practically yelled, glaring daggers at Alec.
"Are you serious?" Simon didn't seem to hear Izzy, although he pouted and appeared to be genuinely put out from Alec's response, nearly making the singer feel guilty.
"Alec, play nice. Or else I'll tell Magnus you're being a prat and then he'll sort you out. And not in a nice way," Izzy hissed, before shooting Simon a dazzling smile that left him gaping.
Alec muttered a swear word under his breath before replying with, "yes mother."
Izzy's eyes narrowed at Alec until she decided to ignore him by patting Simon on the arm whilst distractingly brushing her body against his. Alec averted his eyes away from his sister's antics while she continued to speak. "Sorry about him, clearly he's the hangry one. Anyway, let's go get food. Bye Alec."
Izzy linked their arms together and started to drag Simon away while he chatted mindlessly to her. Alec took the rare time by himself as a gift and continued to stay backstage for twenty minutes, still catching his breath and drying himself off after sweat had left his clothing damp and clinging to his form. He had happily changed into a pair of sweatpants after his jeans disaster – something that he was aware was likely to end up on the front page of the gossip magazines. He skulled more water down, thirsty from the singing and dancing. Alec was absorbed in his own world, imagining his comfortable bed until a throat was cleared from behind him. He hid his groan, expecting Izzy to have returned to annoy him some more.
Putting the cap back onto the bottle, Alec turned around, his face immediately softening at the sight of a slightly self-conscious yet blissful Magnus. The singer's heart stuttered at the magnificent sight of his boyfriend in a pair of black boots, tight black pants and a white singlet top with a red leather jacket over the top. Of course, to finish the look, Magnus had golden eyeshadow and red lipstick, with his midnight black hair also tied back into a bun. Alec suddenly felt very drab in his plain black t-shirt and sweatpants.
"Hey," Alec murmured tenderly, putting the bottle down onto an empty chair.
"Hi handsome," Magnus whispered, eyeing his boyfriend with a proud look. Alec almost melted at the attention he was receiving. "That was quite some show you put on out there."
Alec sent him a sheepish smile, trying hard to not blush from his boyfriend's praise. "What did you think of it?"
"Many things," Magnus admitted softly, stepping closer to Alec and running his manicured fingers down his boyfriend's front. Alec then realised that Magnus also had a pair of studded, fingerless black leather gloves on. "I thought you sang wonderfully, like always. You were great at interacting with the crowd and you are way too good at keeping some big things secret. Finally? I thought you have a lucky boyfriend, who definitely wouldn't have approved of you smearing your eyeliner."
"You seem pretty convinced about that fact," Alec teased, stumbling even closer towards a humoured Magnus. "As if you know my boyfriend."
Magnus bit his lower lip, as if he was contemplating. He removed his hands from Alec's chest and stepped back, shrugging indifferently. "I might've met him once or twice. He had a great ass, just saying."
"He sure does, unfortunately I haven't grabbed said ass in a long time," Alec sighed dramatically, seeing Magnus' pupils dilate.
"Perhaps we should fix that?" He suggested deeply, quirking an eyebrow.
"Fuck yes," Alec moaned noisily, causing Magnus' eyes widen as he swallowed thickly.
Alec strode towards his boyfriend and grabbed the front of Magnus' leather jacket, tugging the fashion student into his arms. Magnus faltered forwards just as their lips finally met. He let out a soft whimper and shut his eyes, letting himself get lost in the moment. Alec wrapped his arms around Magnus' waist while Magnus' draped his around Alec's broad shoulders. Their lips were hot and damp as Magnus gently bit down on Alec's bottom lip, resulting in the singer mewling loudly.
"Oh shit, baby, you can't go making noises like that or I'll cream in my pants," Magnus panted, pulling away from the kiss to catch his breath.
"Get back here," Alec protested, running his hands down Magnus' back before cupping his curvy ass. "Damn, I have missed this ass so much. It's been way too long since I've been able to do this."
"Time for you two to get reunited again?" Magnus recommended cheekily and Alec squeezed in agreement, causing Magnus to gasp.
"I can't wait until I can grab your ass with nothing between us," Alec whispered, kissing and sucking his way down Magnus' neck.
"Ugh, babe, stop. I can't risk having a hickey. The Idris Ball is a week away – I can't go with hickeys." Magnus whined quietly, sounding like he was experiencing a mixture of pain and pleasure.
"Fine," Alec gave in, licking his way up Magnus' neck and reconnected their lips. He yanked Magnus' arse closer to him and grinding against his boyfriend at the same time, able to feel that Magnus was getting excited in his pants.
"Hey bro, congrats-" they two leapt apart, Magnus fixing his appearance and Alec blushing while Jace gaped at them. "Well…this is awkward. I'll guess I'll just leave you two to it."
"Jace," Alec went to stop him, only for the blonde to shake his head.
"Remember to use protection. Oh, and Alec, you've got red lipstick smeared all over your mouth." He called out, leaving in a hurry as Alec stared after him before rushing to clean Magnus' lipstick off his face.
Magnus grimaced and strutted to his boyfriend's side, encasing Alec in a one-armed hug, "that's a way to kill the mood."
"Congratulations," Tessa hugged Jem tightly, practically flinging herself at him. She ignored Will's mutters about how she would never throw herself like that at him while she burrowed her face against Jem's neck, her hair tickling his skin. Jem also pretended that Will said nothing as he returned the embrace. "I'm so happy for you."
"Thanks Tess," he chuckled fondly, patting her back and playing with the tips of her brown hair. He beamed down at her when she released him. "I heard you had some part in the plan."
Tessa winked up at him cheekily, the skin crinkled around her eyes. Jem could see the happiness written all over her face, warming his heart. "Perhaps."
Jem leaned forward slowly, close enough for Tessa to feel his breath against her cheek. A gentle smile graced his pink lips as he whispered affectionately, "well, for whatever part you played, thank you. I can never thank you enough, Tess. For everything. I'll always love you, I hope you'll remember that."
Tessa's eyes filled with tears that she quickly blinked away, "anything for you, Jem. I'll always return that love, you've been my best friend for years."
"And yet, there are more years to come." Jem reached down and squeezed Tessa's hand, the two sharing in a best friend bonding moment. Will watched from the sidelines, happy that he knew he could rely on his two best friends. They would always be a trio.
"Okay, enough with the sappy stuff. Move aside so the rest of us can see the ring," Maia chimed in, bounding forward and clapping excitedly.
"Of course," Jem said smoothly, letting of Tessa's hand and stepping back.
Maia snatched Jem's hand into her own while Tessa politely moved to the side to let others get a glimpse. Her eyes were still damp, although she sent Will a reassuring smile. Maia gasped at Jem's engagement ring. "Oh my."
"You can say that again," Camille also gaped at the ring, her eyes wide with wonder. Ragnor wheeled her closer to get a better look. "It's so beautiful. One of a kind."
"Just like Jem," Will murmured proudly, clasping his fiancé's spare hand in his own and puffing his chest out. Jem hid his grin at the sight by placing a tender kiss on Will's temple.
"You can say that again," Clary sighed, sharing a longing look with Camille that left Ragnor and Jace paling. "That was an amazing proposal too."
"So romantic," Camille sighed contentedly, gazing up at Ragnor with an unrestrained look of adoration that left him containing his happy dance.
Ragnor beamed down at his girlfriend and crouched next to her side, linking their fingers together. "One day, I can promise you that."
"I look forward to it, Fell." Camille replied, partly jokingly with an edge of fondness.
Will tilted his head inquisitively when he saw Maia look away from the display, a disheartened expression on her face. Furthermore, the way Tessa's eyes stayed on Maia's form left him even more bewildered. Tessa had an unreadable look as she bit her lower lip, looking as if she wanted to say something to Maia. Jem nudged Will carefully, and the two men gave each other calculated gazes.
"Don't go getting any ideas," Jace jested weakly to his redheaded girlfriend, caressing Clary on the arm.
"You wish," Clary rolled her eyes, just as they heard an array of squeals from behind.
The group turned to see Alec attempting to make his way through the remaining crowd, Helen and Aline by his side. Aline was waving at a group of fangirls nearby, her dark hair blowing in the gentle breeze while she ensured she remained friendly. Jace watched the way she kept glancing at Helen, who was doing her best to blend in with the crowd. While Aline looked comfortable with the attention, Helen was the absolute obvious. Jace then turned his focus onto Magnus, who was also with Alec, although keeping a respectable distance between the two men. Alec stopped walking for a moment, turning to face Magnus. Jace realised that he was saying something to Magnus, his face lowered and body language showing how he had closed himself off to everyone around them.
To anyone else, it would've appeared to be two friends talking, but Jace could see the way their bodies automatically gravitated towards each other. In that moment, Jace could see that the two men contrasted each other perfectly. Alec was dressed in casual track pants (that did rather well at hugging his ass – according to the lustful looks from fans) and a t-shirt, whilst Magnus was decked out in hard-core glamour. However, the beaming smile on Alec's face made up for his lacking glitter. Despite trying to hide his adoration, Jace could tell that Magnus felt just as taken with Alec. They truly were opposites and yet they fitted together perfectly, like two puzzle pieces coming together.
Magnus nodded down at Alec after a few seconds of their murmurs before he strutted towards Will and Jem, declaring theatrically, "William Herondale, why did you not tell me that today is the day?"
"Hi Magnus," Will replied plainly while Jem waved with a sheepish smile painting his face.
"Now let me see the ring," Magnus demanded sassily, grasping Jem's hand and gaping at the ring. "Wow."
"That's what everyone's thought so far," Maia informed him helpfully, appearing to have cheered up from Magnus' dramatic antics.
"Which bank did you rob to afford this?" Was Magnus' next comment to Will, causing everyone, except Will, to laugh.
"Thanks for the vote of confidence, Mags." Will replied satirically, before his eyes widened. "I have a question, Jace."
"Doesn't everyone?" Jace teased, flicking his golden hair over his shoulder. "Fire away."
"To start with, where have Isabelle and Simon run off to?" Will hesitated before adding, "secondly, Robert Lightwood is striding towards Alexander…is that a good or bad thing?"
All eyes landed on the two Lightwood men, just in time to see them head off for privacy.
"Ask me that again in fifteen minutes?" Jace requested hopefully, although his tense posture made Magnus bit his lower lip and gaze longingly after his boyfriend.
"Dad, what do you want?" Alec had a bewildered expression while he self-consciously hugged himself.
"Come with me," Robert requested, noting the yearning look Alec sent over his shoulder towards Magnus. "I'll be quick, I just need to talk to you before Anna and I catch a flight back to London within the next few days – in case I don't have another chance to talk to you."
Alec felt as if he had been drenched in freezing water due to the reminder of Annamarie's existence. He felt his insides clench angrily as he grumbled out a response, "fine."
The two Lightwoods strode away from the group of friends, a noticeable amount of distance between their bodies. Alec knew that Jace was be watching them closely, aware of the meaning behind every little thing Alec did. Even though Magnus and Alec were close, if anyone could rival their knowledge of Alec's body language, it would be Jace.
"Look a little happier," Robert hissed when he tugged Alec closer, wrapping his arm around his boy's shoulder. Alec bit his lip as he stopped himself from shoving Robert off him. "In case paparazzi are watching."
Alec rolled his eyes but gave his father a fake smile, his lips pressed together tightly. They hurriedly came to a gazebo that had a memorial slate on it for a late patient, vines growing up the sides of it. If Alec wasn't in such a tired mood and wishing to be in the arms of his man, he would have appreciated the beauty of the sight before him. Instead, he stomped closer, shrugging Robert off him.
The two men entered silently, facing each other and the tension built up. Alec could tell that something was stressing his father, yet the comment about Annamarie was still darkening his mood. "What is it?"
"Is that really the way to speak to your father, Alexander?" Robert replied dryly, "I need to speak to you."
"So speak," Alec suggested inattentively, shrugging. "I need to get back to my friends."
"I think you mean that you want to get back to Magnus," Robert stated, raising his hands when Alec gave him a dark look. "Just stating the obvious, son. You're young and in love-"
"How would you know anything about love?" Alec spat out, fire building within the depths of his blue eyes.
"I didn't come here to fight, Alexander." Robert interjected exhaustedly, rubbing his forehead with the back of his hand. "I wanted to talk business."
"That's all you and Mum ever have wanted to talk about." Alec corrected him coldly, "it was never family. It was always business. I'm so sick of it, Dad."
"Then remain sick of it until we can talk about your feelings later, when we don't have time constraints." Robert snapped, his body full of withheld anger. "Now will you grow up and listen to me?"
"Me grow up? You have a long list of things that you need to grow up for, Dad. For one, taking responsibility for all the shit you've done to our family." Alec yelled, marching past Robert, attempting to leave. Robert caught his arm and held him firmly as Alec snarled, eyeing his father's hand. "Let me go."
"Listen to me, I just want to talk about something and then I'll be out of your hair." Robert whispered, releasing Alec's arm.
"What is it?" Alec growled after a moment's silence.
"You're aware of the next movie I'll be directing? It's been delayed because we decided to alter a few things." Robert started, not waiting for Alec's reply before he continued. "Jace isn't aware of it yet, but this is going to be the first movie he'll star in that is directed by me."
Alec gaped at his father – he definitely didn't expect this. There had always been a huge rule that Jace was not going to be one of Robert's movies because there were too many ways it could go wrong. The fact that Robert was prepared to cast Jace amazed him, "but…what about the rule?"
"He's made a big name for himself without using my movies. He got his first huge role, not me. Plus, I was thinking it could have quite a few Lightwoods in it." Robert broached casually.
Alec raised an eyebrow, "what are you planning, Dad?"
"Alexander, your mother and I were thinking that perhaps, a nice way to end this married was to finish it how it started – on set. Maryse will be staring in this movie, but to difference this time? We want to have our children in it too." Robert informed Alec quietly.
Alec hesitated, "Dad, I'm not an actor. And if this is your way of trying to fix things, it's a shitty way."
"But you are a singer," Robert butted in. "Hear me out, Alec. I've been talking my co-workers, including the composers. We want you to co-write the main theme song with them. Perhaps even two or three songs."
"That's a big thing to ask, Dad." Alec stepped back, crossing his arms over his chest.
"I know you can do it," Robert insisted, moving closer and placing his hands on Alec's shoulders. Alec swallowed thickly, fighting his irate feelings that made him desire throwing Robert's hands off him.
"And what about Iz and Max?" Alec interjected, finding it difficult to imagine Max in a film.
"Funnily enough, Max has agreed to this. Unbelievable, I know. I think he just wants to do what he thinks is best for the family." Robert gave Alec a tense smile, "he'll be acting beside Jace…as somewhat of a brother figure."
"And Izzy?" Alec pushed, still unsure about the situation.
"She too has a part. Alexander, listen to me, it's all been thought out." Robert squeezed Alec's shoulders and leaned closer. "Just say yes or no."
"I…" Alec paused and swallowed thickly. This movie could be huge, after all, all the Lightwoods in one greatest hit? The publicity alone would cause sales to sky rocket. "I'll do it."
"What did you think of the performance?" Jace asked gently, stretched across the sofa with Clary tucked safely in his arms.
Clary absentmindedly played with the neckline of Jace's shirt, enjoying the sight of his collarbone before cautiously replying with, "it was sweet…although, I have a question."
"Ask away, babe." Jace replied, slipping a stray fiery red curl behind Clary's ear and kissing her on the cheek.
Clary turned bright red at Jace's actions and nickname for her, stuttering out, "I was wondering…what happened today…when Alec was performing Just a Dream? You just…left."
She felt Jace immediately tense up, causing her to pull herself away from him. He swallowed and frowned up at her, his golden eyes having a calculating look in them as he tried to figure out how to handle the situation. "Ah, I was not expecting that question."
"Don't deflect it, Jace." Clary pleaded as he sat up and leapt over the back of her couch to escape. Clary crossed her arms over her chest, becoming indignant. "Where are you going?"
"I should head off…my manager is sure to need me or something." Jace muttered distractedly, causing Clary to grimace.
"Why are you shutting me out? This is just like when you denied your feelings for me all over again," Clary argued, hurt showing on her face. "Stop rejecting me."
"Stop making it so easy," Jace countered, yanking his jacket on and zipping it up forcefully. Clary almost thought he was about to break the material or zip. "I'll text you later."
"No. You won't." Clary got off the sofa and strode towards Jace, standing between him and the door. She glowered up at him, not letting their height difference lessen her attempt at intimidating behaviour. "You're staying here and talking to me."
"So you're going to keep me here against my will? Classy," Jace raised his voice, golden hair falling in front of his eyes.
"And you're going to abandon your girlfriend because of one question? Pathetic," Clary screamed, letting her walls down. Her eyes filled up with tears and Jace immediately recognise that there was more to Clary's response than she originally let on. "Go Jace, just go. Be like my father then, he couldn't stay either."
"What are you rambling on about now?" Jace snapped, his anger causing him to act without thinking as he grabbed his phone and wallet off the table.
"Go," Clary screeched, trying to hold in her waterworks until he left. "Leave me. Go."
Jace stomped past her, crashing into her side and making her stumble back a few steps. Clary made no noise of recognition as she kept her eyes downcast, biting her lips as her shoulders shook from withheld sobs. Jace practically pounced at the door, grasping the handle but pausing when he heard a small whimper. He shut his eyes and rested his head against the wood of the door, taking in deep breaths. His heart pounded as he took a few moments to calm down.
"I'm sorry," he murmured dejectedly. "I'm…so…so sorry."
"You've done enough, leave." Clary whispered coldly, her back still turned to him. "Take your shallow apologies with you. I knew I shouldn't have trusted you from the start…everything you've said and done…it was all lies. Just lies."
"I never lied, Clary. The…the reason I left during the song…was….was…because Alec wrote that song about me." Jace admitted, his grip painfully tight on the door handle. "When he was sixteen."
Clary gasped and glanced over her shoulder at him, her curls tumbling behind her back with the movement. "But…it's a break up song. How…I…I don't understand."
"I guess I broke a part of him," Jace murmured darkly, letting out a cold laugh and completely facing Clary. "Clary, I'm a terrible, heartless person. You deserve to know it now before I break your heart too."
"That's not true," Clary fought sternly, spinning around. "You are not terrible or heartless, Jace. You're one of the most amazing people I have ever met."
"I just yelled at you and went to leave because of a question," Jace ran a hand through his hair, agitated. "I ruined tonight…another thing to add to the list."
"What's on your mind, Jace? Tell me the truth." Clary requested softly, stepping closer to him.
"During the concert, it suddenly hit me. All these years of singing that song…and he was singing it to me." Jace licked his lips and lowered his face, trying to hide his expression of shame, mixed with self-loathing. "Clary, I need you to swear you'll never tell anyone what I'm about to tell you."
"I swear," Clary stated, standing in front of Jace and holding his hands in her own. "Just let me in."
"When Alec and I were teenagers…we kissed." Jace muttered slowly, keeping his eyes on the wall behind Clary's head. He knew that Clary was giving him her look of surprise mixed with bewilderment. "He visited me during the night, clearly upset about something. I tried to comfort him and then he just…kissed me. I was stupid. I rejected him coldly – pretended the kiss never happened. He just ran away so quickly…I was going to talk to him about it, but then I changed my mind. I thought it was for the best. Until the realisation hit me today…that hurt him more. My nonchalance about him…it made him feel worthless. I'm such a dick."
"You're not a dick for not being gay, Jace." Clary comforted, touching his arm. "You can't help it if you're not attracted to him."
"No, but I am a dick for not being there for him, Clary." Jace took in a deep breath, sounding as if it was rattling in his lungs. "Clary…he loved me…more than anyone else ever has. He adored me…you should have seen the looks he sent me. The way he would listen to any issues I had. The way he was always there for me when life got hard. He helped however he could and he protected me from all the negative publicity. Alec has done a lot for me since the start. Yet, I destroyed his heart."
"You would've destroyed his heart even more by pretending to return the feelings," Clary pointed out soothingly. "We're humans, Jace. We can't help who we do or do not fall for. It's not in our nature."
"The thing is, he hid it well, but I know that when I first started talking about you…it still hurt him. Less and less as he became more involved with Magnus, but it still hurt him. I think a part of him still hurts when you're around." Jace swallowed and his eyes eventually came to connect with hers. "And yet, I've never regretted us…what we have, at all."
"That's good," Clary stated kindly, gazing up at him.
Jace moved closer and cupped her face in his hands, "Clarissa Fray, you need to believe me when I say that you make me the happiest I've felt before. I know we haven't been official for very long…practically no time at all, but I can't deny what my heart is telling me. You've given me something I never expected, Clary. You gave me true love. A love more passionate than any Romeo or Juliet's. A love brighter than the Northern Lights."
Clary gaped up at him in shock before her expression morphed into a love struck grin, "you're a romantic, Jace Herondale. I never expected that."
"I'm full of surprises," Jace smirked at her before leaning down and whispering into her ear, "and so damn hot, too."
Clary rolled her eyes but melted into his arms, "egotistical too."
"You love it," Jace beamed down at her, kissing her forehead.
"For some reason, I really do." Clary mumbled, leaving Jace with a huge infectious grin.
The hotel room was warm and cosy with the T.V quietly playing on the opposite wall to the bed. There was an empty bottle of wine on the table and two half-full wine glasses on the bedside table. Alec's phone was in his bag, turned off as he gave his complete attention to his boyfriend. The atmosphere was comfortable and relaxed, something that the two men were basking in. After thirty minutes of small talk, Alec's saw Magnus bite his lower lip thoughtfully.
He jokingly poked his boyfriend in the forehead, "what's that look for?"
"Can I ask what was going on between you and your father?" Magnus broached the topic nonchalantly, his head resting securely in Alec's lap.
Alec's fingers went back to playing absentmindedly with Magnus' spikey hair while he smiled down at the tanned man. "If you promise not to tell anyone."
Magnus rolled his emerald eyes and gazed up at Alec, the skilfully-done eyeliner around his eyes making his eyes appear sharp. Alec had to stop himself from gawking at the sight. "Alexander, you know I'd never betray your trust."
"And that's another thing I love about you," Alec replied unconcernedly before his eyes widened and Magnus gasped.
"You…love something…about me?" Alec was unsure that he had ever seen or heard Magnus become so vulnerable before.
"Mags," Alec licked his lips self-consciously, slightly tentative. "No one has ever made me feel the way that you do. Your touch, your smell, even the way you move…it drives me wild."
"You're not answering my question, Alexander." Magnus sat up and turned around, crossing his legs as he stared into Alec's eyes.
"I'm scared that I'll scare you off," Alec admitted in a low voice, his lips barely moving.
Magnus leaned closer and murmured tenderly, "you could never scare me away, Alexander."
"You say that now, but…" Alec trailed off with an awkward laugh.
"Actually, I say that now and for the rest of our time," Magnus informed him cheekily, shifting closer to him. "Tell me what you meant, Alexander."
"I…trusting you isn't the only thing I love about you." Alec confessed softly, shutting his eyes briefly when Magnus gently cupped his cheek. "I love your snigger and the way your voice cracks when you're trying to hold in your laughter. I love your eyes and how they're the colour of the greenest grass – it reminds me of home in England. I love your skin and feel of your body against mine. I love how your always need to touch me…whether it's just the slightest brush of our arms when we walk or how you'll rest your head on my shoulder. I love how your jokes and how you strut around town, as if you own the place. I love what you wear, everything suits you so well…and the majority of the time, I'm trying not to stare at your ass. But do you know what I love the most? Above everything else?"
"What?" Magnus mumbled, his eyes slightly damp as Alec crawled closer to him and knelt on the bed.
"You," Alec disclosed lovingly and Magnus tilted his head slightly so that their faces could inch closer.
"Do you really mean that, Alexander?" Magnus questioned, running his hands up Alec's arm as the singer's hands rested on his hips.
"With all my heart," Alec confirmed, leaning in and letting their lips slowly touch.
Magnus returned the kiss with the same amount of tenderness, humming under his breath. He pulled back for a moment, "I love you too, Alexander."
Alec flung back, grinning at his boyfriend and they both let out little titters. Magnus wasn't expected Alec to suddenly scoop him up and jump to his feet. "God, I adore you, Magnus Bane."
"Oh my God, don't drop me!" Was Magnus' high-pitched shriek of a response. Alec threw his head back and laughed before cautiously helped Magnus stand up, the two still on the bed. Magnus draped his arms over Alec's shoulders as Alec continued to hold him close. "I adore you too, Alexander Gideon Lightwood."
Alec groaned, "please do not remind me of the travesty I call my full name."
"It's cute and so posh. Alexander Gideon. Almost the complete opposite of my joke of a name." Magnus teased, kissing Alec on the tip of his nose. "Just think what are kids' names could be."
Alec choked on his own saliva, "Magnus, I don't know if you know this, but two men are unable to make a baby."
Magnus rolled his eyes and huffed, "I meant adoption, Alexander."
"I'm too young to be a dad," Alec protested weakly, his skin ashen and eyes bulging.
"Not now, Alexander. Later…maybe after we've been together for a few years. Perhaps, even when we're married?" Magnus winked up at Alec. "What do you think about that, Mr Bane-Lightwood?"
Alec raised an eyebrow cheekily, "you sound very certain that we'll last. And Mr Bane-Lightwood sounds stupid, it'd be Lightwood-Bane."
"Well then, fine. Mr Lightwood-Bane. I have many reasons to believe it." Magnus insisted, tightening his grip on Alec.
"And what do those reasons consist of?" Alec tugged Magnus even closer, their bodies completely pressed against each other's.
"Well, mainly one, actually." Magnus turned his head to whisper into Alec's ear, "because I'll love you for the rest of my life."
"Funnily enough, I think I can say the same for you." Alec declared with a laugh as the two men swayed. "You know, Magnus Lightwood doesn't sound too bad."
"Lightwood-Bane." Magnus automatically amended. "Magnus and Alexander Lightwood-Bane."
"One day," Alec shut his eyes and rested his forehead against Magnus'.
"One day," Magnus echoed, enjoying the moment as they continued to rock on the bed, in each other's arms.
"You look tired," Jessamine commented as Magnus trudged into the classroom, his peers getting their outfits out as they prepared for the next few hours.
Magnus placed his sewing kit onto his workbench as sighed with relief when Jessamine handed him a steaming takeaway coffee, "thanks, I'll pay you back sometime."
"No need to," Jessamine replied, leaning against the edge of his bench. "Talk, Magnus."
"About what?" Magnus diverted wearily, causing Jessamine to roll her eyes. "Fine. Alec told me that he and his siblings will need to fly to Canada to do something for their Father. But they'll be away for the next month."
"But that means he'll miss the Idris Ball," Jessamine hissed, sounding horrified.
"I know," Magnus groaned, rubbing his forehead where an ache was beginning to build up. "It was stupid of me to assume that he'd be able to come anyway, he isn't ready to make us an official couple."
"It'll be okay, Magnus. You'll still have fun at the ball without him and you two can reveal your love story soon enough." Jessamine insisted soothingly, trying to hide her frown from him.
"What if he's never ready to let people know the truth?" Magnus huffed, crossing his arms over his chest. "Although, there is something new that happened last night."
"Let's hear it," Jessamine coerced, watching Magnus closely.
"We…we told each other we loved each other." Magnus lowered his voice, seeing how Jessamine gaped at him before bouncing and clapping her hands together.
"That's amazing, Magnus." She cheered, throwing her arms around him.
Magnus chuckled, "there's more. I slept over at his hotel room last night. Although, we didn't get to sleep until one in the morning – we ended up talking about him going to Canada."
Jessamine raised her eyebrow at him, "how much sleep have you gotten recently?"
"Clearly not enough," Magnus grumbled, sulking before adding, "in-between Camille's accident, this stupid ball and fashion show and the trip to London, my sleep schedule has been screwed over."
"How about you get through the next few hours of class and then go home to sleep?" Jessamine recommended softly, patting Magnus on the shoulder.
"You might be right there, Jessamine." Magnus gave in, peering out the window. "Just a few more hours. I might visit Camille before heading home, just to make sure she's still alright."
"Whatever you think is best," Jessamine started to return to her own workbench. "Just make sure you get some sleep."
"What are you doing Alec? It's eight in the bloody morning. What the bloody hell are you doing?" Jace banged on the hotel door, the piano playing stopping. "Finally."
The door opened, revealing an exhausted Alec. Jace took a moment to take in the dark circles under Alec's eyes and the extreme bedhair the singer was showing. "I need to write some songs for an arrangement with…someone."
"And who may that someone be? Someone important enough for you to be playing at flipping eight in the morning?" Jace questioned grouchily, leaning against the doorframe.
"Well, I was woken up when Magnus left to go to university-" Alec stated before Jace interrupted him.
"Wait a moment, Magnus spent the night here?" Jace grinned at his brother, shoving him inside and closing the door behind him. "Details, dear brother."
"You are awfully similar to Izzy." Alec scrunched his nose up and began to walk towards his piano.
"No you don't," Jace caught his hand and yanked him back. "Tell me about your night with Magnus."
"We literally just slept. That's all. He got up at six to get ready for an 8'o'clock workshop. Happy?" Alec raised an eyebrow. "You're not getting any more details than that, Jace."
"You're such a party pooper," Jace whined, plonking down on the bed. "So, what is this song you're writing about?"
"Good question," Alec laughed awkwardly, "the one I'm writing currently is meant to be more of a…break up song mixed with the desire to get back together…if that makes sense?"
"Sort of," Jace paused, "why don't you just play it for me?"
"I've only got the chorus written so far," Alec blushed before sitting down at the piano stool and clearing his throat. He pressed down on the keys and started to sing.
And if you have a minute, why don't we go,
Talk about it somewhere only we know?
This could be the end of everything.
So why don't we go,
Somewhere only we know?
Jace clapped when Alec finished, "sounds good to me. I like it."
"I'm hoping to get a bit of a choir effect with it as well to make it more dramatic," Alec shrugged self-consciously. "The person I'm working with wants it to leave people with goose bumps…whatever that translates to."
"You'll figure it out," Jace waved his hand and sighed, "anyway, I'm going back to bed. Feel free to take a break from song writing for the next hour or two."
"Fine," Alec rolled his eyes as Jace made his way back to the door. "Have fun sleeping in."
"Oh, I will." Jace winked at Alec before leaving, the door slamming shut behind him.
There was a knock on the door of Camille's hospital room, interrupting the trio's chatter and surprising them. Magnus had just arrived after his class had finally finished, after what felt like a long three hours. Vivienne and Roger were supposedly visiting around 3'o'clock, however, after Camille checked the time on her phone, they found it was only 2'o'clock. She hummed cheerily, "Mum and Dad must be early. Come in!"
"Perhaps," Ragnor said non-committedly, waiting to see who the guest was.
Camille was placing her phone back onto her bedside table, just as the visitors entered. Magnus and Ragnor tensed as soon as they saw the people, while Camille took a few moments to collect herself. As soon as Ragnor and Magnus realised it was Annamarie and Robert, they were both standing protectively beside Camille's bed.
Ragnor spoke up, "what are you doing here? I thought you agreed to wait until she was out of hospital."
Magnus shifted awkwardly, aware that it was also his boyfriend's father who was being disrespected. Robert glimpsed at Magnus before peering back at Ragnor. Camille's eyes narrowed menacingly, picking up on Magnus and Ragnor's negative and defensive emotions. She started to eye the woman, clearly uncomfortable when she realised that Annamarie looked like an older version of herself. The two women gazed at each other while Camille took in the sight of the long silvery blonde curls and angular jawline. The only difference was their eyes, however, there was no way to deny that they were related by blood.
Camille stayed silent, everyone observing her closely before she quietly asked, "who are you?"
Annamarie cleared her throat after a gentle nudge from Robert, "hi…Camille. I'm…I'm Annamarie Highsmith. I'm…I'm your mother."
"So you're the woman who Alec told to bugger off," Camille immediately changed, her intrigued demeanour replaced by forged awe before sending a fake smile to the woman. Magnus hid his smirk behind his hand and Ragnor coughed delicately. They knew that Camille, whether drugged or not, wouldn't welcome this visit. "I would've appreciated if you listened to him the first time, although I'm sure he'd happily return to say it all again. Magnus and Ragnor would be up for helping him."
"Please, I just wanted to see how you are feeling," Annamarie stepped forward pleadingly, stopping when Camille raised her hand.
"I'm afraid you're over twenty years too late, Annamarie." She informed her coldly, "I told my parents this and now I'm going to tell you, birth mother or not, I want nothing to do with you. I will never want to be associated with you."
"Well, you're going to have to get used to me." Annamarie countered, her voice thick with attitude. It was in a manner that reminded Magnus a lot of Camille, although it merely managed to rile Camille up even more. Magnus placed his hand on Camille's shoulder, and while she sent him a dirty look, she permitted him to keep his hand there.
"And just why is that, you toad?" Camille snapped, her heart rate increasing on the monitor.
"Cammie, babe, calm down." Ragnor murmured, going back to playing with her hair. Her heart rate slowed down again at the touch, making Ragnor seemed rather chuffed with himself. Magnus rolled his eyes in Ragnor's direction.
"In case you didn't realise, I'm dating Robert, which means you're practically the step-sister of the Lightwood children." Annamarie declared and Magnus gaped at the woman's declaration. "You'll be seeing a lot of them too."
"Funnily enough, I have no issue with seeing a lot of the Lightwood children. They actually care for their family and have a strong sense of morality, you see. I wonder just who they got that trait from though, no one I've met yet." Camille snarled, giving Robert a sinister look. "Now if you please leave me before I call for security to leave, it'd be very appreciated."
Robert placed a hand on Annamarie's arm, softly tugging her closer to his side. "Come on Anna, let's go. You can come back when things have settled a little more."
"I'd prefer it if you didn't," Camille interrupted with faux happiness, "you know where the door is. Please use it."
"Fine, but if you want to talk, you'll know where I am." Annamarie huffed, going to leave. "Come on, Robert. I need lunch."
Robert hesitated, looking at his girlfriend before facing Magnus with a warm expression, "congratulations on the job, by the way. I overheard Izzy and Jace talking about it to Maryse on the phone."
"What job?" Magnus wracked his brain to figure out what Robert was referring.
Robert raised an eyebrow, appearing to be somewhat flabbergasted. "Working as my son's costume designer for his upcoming tour? Or has Alexander not told you yet? Oops."
Magnus' jaw dropped at Robert's poor attempt at pretending he was unaware of Magnus' lacking knowledge and he felt his friends' eye him with shock. He quickly gathered himself and replied smoothly, "I was not aware that job existed, Sir."
"I probably wasn't meant to tell you, but I'm sure Alexander will ask you eventually. The boy can avoid things that make him nervous like it's the plague. I know he also was hoping you'd design a dress for Maryse – her request of course. Were you unaware of that too? I am very sorry." Robert muttered before striding out of the hospital room with Annamarie in tow.
"Was he serious, Magnus?" Camille burst out, observing her best friend closely. Excitement replaced her hostility. "Alec asked you to be his costume designer and to design a dress for his mother?"
"He hasn't asked me anything like that," Magnus responded, biting his lower lip apprehensively as he sat back down next to her.
"Weird," Ragnor commented quietly, sharing a confused look with Camille while he copied Magnus' actions.
Magnus sighed and rested his head on his hand, "you can say that again."
"Oh my God, no freaking way." Izzy gaped at the picture on the front page of the magazine. There was no way to deny who was on it. Izzy was laughing as she strutted down a street in a pair of heels that made her legs appear long and fit. She wore a tight red dress that left little to the imagination, her dark her billowing in the breeze as she gazed up at Simon. There was something soft in her eye that was a rare sight, especially for people outside of her close circle of friends and family. Simon also appeared to be laughing at something while he reached out towards her, mirth in his eyes. Admittedly, the picture did support the words written next to the incriminating evidence: Who is Isabelle Lightwood's New Lover? "You have got to be kidding me."
"I didn't know you two were that close," Jace smirked at his sister, causing her to scowl deeply at him.
Izzy snatched the magazine and waved it in front of his face. "Shut up Jace before I shove this magazine up your egotistical-"
"Isabelle," Alec yelled over the top as the group of friends sat in Camille's crowded hospital room.
"What's so bad about it?" Clary queried hesitantly, wrapped up in Jace's arms.
Jace smirked and raised an eyebrow at Izzy, "yes Izzy, please share with us all."
"I hate you," Izzy snarled, leaping to her feet and going to whack Jace over the back of the head before Alec got between them.
"Enough," he commanded fiercely, his arm in front of Izzy's stomach, holding her back. "Isabelle, you're an adult, act it. And Jace, stop egging her on for fun."
Jace pouted as Izzy fought against Alec's grip, "why do you have to be such a party pooper?"
Magnus, who was watching as he learnt against the side of Ragnor's chair said calmly, "Isabelle, feel free not to murder my boyfriend in your rage at you other brother. Remember Alexander is innocent in this situation."
"No promises if he's getting in my way," Izzy snapped as Simon and Maia entered the room with steaming coffees. She held the magazine up for him to see, "have you seen this? They've invaded my privacy again and made out lies about my personal life."
Maia squinted at the picture, moving closer to get a better look. She pointed at the man next to Isabelle on the cover, "hang on, is that you and Simon?"
"Don't make it sound like it's so unbelievable," Simon protested and Clary laughed loudly at the joke, making him grin at her.
"Be quiet, Simon. And that doesn't matter, Maia, look at the important aspect." Isabelle corrected her quickly as Simon grinned at the front cover. "Oi, what are you smiling at?"
"This could be my big break. I could be famous," Simon nudged Maia jokingly as she laughed. "Isabelle Lightwood's boy toy – I could get used to that."
"Where does it say that?" Will inquired, perking up a little more.
"Page twenty-eight, apparently." Simon replied quickly, not picking up on the dangerous look on the youngest Lightwood's face.
"Simon, this isn't a joke." Isabelle growled, narrowing her eyes up at him. "They won't leave me alone."
"And yet, you're the one letting them be the powerful, manipulative person." Simon pointed out, making the whole room fall silent. Izzy gawked, unused to being spoken to like that. "Be the stronger person, Izzy. Ignore their lies because you know that they're all just trying to make money out of them. If you keep making a big thing about it, they'll just make up even more."
"Damn, you're surprisingly wise, Lewis." Will muttered while Jem blinked the shock away.
"I do have my moments," Simon remarked with a cheeky grin as Will barked out a laugh.
"Whatever, I don't have time for this shit." Izzy yelled, storming past Simon and out of the hospital room.
"I know that you like her dude, so I'm going to speak from a friend's perspective, instead of a brother's – go and snog the bloody daylights out of her." Jace supplied helpfully, resting his chin on the crown of Clary's head.
Simon went red and received a shove from Maia, "just go. Win your girl."
Simon gave them a thumbs up, "back in a mo."
The group watched him run out of the room before Clary faced Jace, "you know, telling a guy to make out with his sister is sort of weird."
"Good thing she isn't biologically my sister," Jace winked after pulling his girlfriend closer as he caught Magnus watching Alec. "Okay, my next brother duty is to tell Magnus to take Alec outside of this room and talk. Anyone can tell he's ready to explode about something."
"You're surprisingly perceptive right now," Clary commented, causing Jace to let out a dramatic sigh of her name. "There's my Jace."
Magnus rolled his eyes and merely took Alec's hand and dragged him out of the room, ignoring the confused looks from everyone else, mainly Alec. Alec poked him in the arm, "Mags, what are you doing?"
Magnus shut the door behind them and then continued to lead him towards the male bathroom, "follow me, Alexander."
"I don't exactly have another choice," Alec pointed out, receiving a grunt from Magnus as the two men entered the empty bathroom. Alec waited for the door to shut behind them before asking, "what is it?"
"Your Dad told me something that was…quite surprising. To say the least." Magnus crossed his arms over his chest and tilted his head.
"Oh no," Alec moaned and ran his hands down his face, "what did my Dad say?"
"That you were planning to hire me as a costume designer and a designer for one of your mother's dresses." Magnus stated, observing the way Alec's hands fell away from his face and his mouth fell open.
"Well…I didn't expect that." Alec said after a moment of silence, causing Magnus to growl.
"That's all you can say? Alexander-" Magnus found himself cut off when Alec pushed their lips together and wrapped his arms around him. "We're in public."
"I know," Alec said against his lips before regretfully pulling back. "What he said was true, although I was waiting until your showcase and ball was over before I put an extra thing onto your already packed schedule. I was going to talk to you about it. Out of curiousity…what would you have said?"
Magnus rolled his eyes and jerked Alec closer, "Alec, that was the most stupid question that has ever left your lips."
Alec shot him a puzzled look, "thanks?"
Magnus let out a chuckle before kissing Alec again and whispering, "yes."
"What are you doing?" Aline stood in the doorway of Helen's bedroom in Helen's family house, her siblings yelling downstairs.
"Organising Alec's suit for a surprise," Helen replied distractedly as she laid the black suit across her bed. "I messaged Jessamine-"
"Who is Jessamine?" Aline cut in immediately, her eyes narrowing.
Helen paused and gazed up at her girlfriend before smiling, "Aline Penhallow…are you jealous?"
Aline let out a laugh and shook her head, "me? Jealous? No. I don't get jealous."
Helen hid her smirk by returning to Alec's suit, "sure. Whatever you say. As I was saying before, I messaged Jessamine-"
"Who is Jessamine?" Aline questioned, shutting the door behind her as she strode into the room.
"Just a girl," Helen bit her lower lip to stop herself from openly giggling. "Quite pretty – blonde hair, big boobs and gorgeous skin. All the men and women are drawn to her. She's quite the catch."
"And where did you meet her?" Aline failed at keeping her jealously out of her tone as she plonked herself down onto the bed, next to Helen.
"She goes to Idris University, where she's studying fashion with Magnus." Helen said airily, "apparently Magnus will be wearing a suit that is tinted purple, so Alec will have a purple mask."
"So it's a masquerade ball?" Aline queried, appreciating the mask Helen had laid out next to the suit.
"Sure is, that tends to be a common theme for the Idris Ball." Helen replied as she started to compare the different purple ties she had retrieved.
"When is the ball?" Aline enjoyed watching Helen work, especially due to the cute expression she had when she concentrated.
"Six days away," Helen confirmed, clucking her tongue. "This tie is better."
"Isn't Alec going to Canada, though?" Aline's brow furrowed from confusion, which deepened when Helen tittered.
"No, that's a lie he created so that Magnus would be surprised when he arrived." Helen patted Aline on the hand, "can you please go make hot chocolates? Please?"
Aline quickly gave into her girlfriend's pout, "fine, only for you. As long as you promise to tell me more about this Jessamine."
"Honestly?" Helen beamed up at her girlfriend, "she's a straight girl who is dating Tessa Gray's brother. She is beautiful, but she has a terrible nose. Don't tell her I said that though. Happy?"
"Happy," Aline grinned and kissed Helen on the tip of her nose, "okay, one hot chocolate coming up. With extra marshmallows."
"Thanks beautiful," Helen laughed and Aline practically melted at the nickname.
"You are most welcome, gorgeous." She hid her smile as she floated out of the room, replaying Helen's words in her mind.
"Izzy, wait up." Simon called out, making his way through the crowd in the entrance to the hospital.
Whispers were filling the room as onlookers watched Isabelle Lightwood stride out of the hospital, security guards quick to move to her side. Simon tried to keep his face down while he chased after her, swearing when the sensor doors shut right before he reached them. He waited for them to slowly open, feeling like it was forever before he finally made it to the front of the hospital. Smoke filled his lungs and he coughed before he realised that Izzy was about to get into a black car.
"Izzy, please, stop." Simon rushed over and a security guard caught him before he could reach her. "Hear me out, Iz. Please."
Izzy stopped herself from entering the car, although she refused to look at him. Simon took it as a good sign, although the rather buff security guard growled in his ear, "stop it, boy."
"Let go of me, seriously, what is your diet? Protein and steroids? Isabelle, please listen to me…look, I didn't want to make this a public announcement, but you leave me no choice. You are the most stunning girl I have ever seen, with a heart of gold and jokes that I will never stop laughing at. The first moment I met you, I felt my heart leap in my chest. You were so perfect, with those amazing eyes and gorgeous smile. You also talked to me like I was human – there was no superiority complex. And God, when you strut around in heels, your legs look so good. Sorry…sounds perverted, but it's true. But please, Isabelle, listen to me because what I said back there…I didn't mean it to sound unsupportive or mean. I know the paparazzi are dicks," Simon paused and looked over at the group of men holding cameras, "er, sorry guys. Anyway, I know that. I know you have no privacy and if they want to write a story about you, then I might as well make it true. Please, Isabelle, listen."
Izzy slowly looked over her shoulder at him, her eyes brimming with tears as she mouthed his name. The security guard next to her said, "Miss Lightwood, we need to head off soon or we'll block up the entrance."
"Izzy, you know how you told me to keep my four eyes on you? They're always going to be on you because…because…I love you. It's silly because we only met a while ago and we aren't together and I'll probably regret saying it when Tumblr mocks my non-existent ass for even thinking that Isabelle Lightwood would return my feelings…but…it's true. I love you, Isabelle Sophia. I always will. I will take any ridiculing from Tumblr and admit it for the rest of my days if it means that you live knowing that you are completely and utterly adored by some geeky guy who works in a café and dreams big. I know I'm nothing compared to you, but…that doesn't stop my heart from pounding whenever you're near. Or the way your scent leaves me feeling intoxicated with giddiness. Or the way my nerves cause me to ramble when you give me a look that suddenly reminds me that you are practically a goddess. I know I'm just a guy who serves coffee for a living and plays in a stupid band that will never become famous…but Isabelle, you are everything to me. I liked you from the first moment and I will adore you for the rest."
"Miss Lightwood-" the security guard went to remind her, although she merely shushed him and completely turned around to stare at Simon.
Simon swallowed thickly, seeing the way some tears had dribbled down her face. "Isabelle, to sum this up…all I can say is that I want you to be the Jean Grey to my Cyclops, if you'd let it happen."
Isabelle slowly ambled forward, "my silly four eyes, how blind you have been."
"Is that a yes or no?" Simon whispered as the security guard released him when Isabelle nodded at him.
Izzy smirked up at him before grabbing him by his t-shirt and yanking him towards her. Simon stumbled forward, catching himself when he placed his hands on her shoulders. Their lips met and Simon's eyes widened until he let out a sigh of happiness and shut them. Simon wrapped his arms around her as Izzy pulled back, "does that tell you my answer, Cyclops?"
"Hell yes, Jean." Simon laughed before pulling her back and dipping her down in the middle of the entrance to the hospital. Izzy let out a giggle and weakly protested due to being in a dress, although these complaints were drowned out by the onlookers' cheers and the feeling of Simon's lips back on hers. The cameras were firing away, however, the two lovers were completely absorbed in their own little world.
Aww Izzy and Simon are officially a thing :') I promise that there will be the Idris Ball in the next chapter, I just didn't want to rush it. Thank you so much to everyone who reviewed!
AnnieBea – WHY THANK YOU! I'm happy that you think it's amazing :')
Pri-Chan 1410 – Haha Will sure does seem to know how to be romantic. Just wait until their wedding! ;) Thank you so much for reviewing again. It means a lot to me.
Tay - What did you think about this chapter? Did you jump around the room in happiness again? :D I'm glad you liked the moment where Alec ripped his pants! And I'm still trying to decide whether I'll get deeper into the past of Alec and Jace, or if I'll leave of there or only go there a little. Awww I'm so relieved that you liked the proposal! And I promise that the ball is going to be in the next chapter, because I don't know about you, but I think it's time for it. You will need to wait to find out what entrance Alec has to the ball, but I promise that you'll adore it! I'll listen to Strong, I'm sure it'll be great! And I haven't heard Rise a lot, but since I don't remember hating on it, it must be decent. I'll listen to it and get back to you on that Thanks for reviewing again!
FigsVsNewton – Oh my god, it's so cool if I legit made you say oh my god when you barely say it ;) Aww thanks for saying it was beautiful :') Haha I loved the different photos, although I may be biased! I realised there was not enough Luke and Jocelyn in the fic and that had to be fixed immediately. As for Jace realisation the truth behind the song, I guess I wanted to show an insecure side of him since we often see him strong and confident. I love Unconditionally, especially acoustic versions, so I personally thought it was perfect! But I am biased…again ;) Thanks for reviewing!
StormageddonDarkLadyOfAll – Trust me, writing the flashbacks going so confusing for me as well! Especially when trying to remember dates/ages of characters and all that. Sorry that it was confusing to read though, I tried to avoid that but next time I write a flashback seen, I'll work on that Aww I'm glad you liked Will's proposal! Thanks for reviewing.